Can I make taco pasta salad without meat?

Yes! Taco pasta salad is easy to make vegetarian by swapping the ground beef or chicken with black beans, chickpeas, or tofu. You still get the classic taco pasta salad flavor with creamy dressing, cheese, and fresh vegetables.

What dressing works best for taco pasta salad?

A creamy blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and taco seasoning is ideal. You can also try ranch or a zesty taco pasta salad dressing for extra flavor.

How long will taco pasta salad stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, taco pasta salad lasts 3–5 days in the fridge. Add Doritos or crunchy toppings just before serving to keep them crisp.

Can I make taco pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the pasta, protein, and vegetables in advance, toss with dressing, and chill. Top with Doritos right before serving for the best texture.

Can I customize this taco pasta salad?

Yes! You can make an easy taco pasta salad with chicken, ground beef, or even a ranch taco pasta salad version. Add more veggies, cheese, or spices to suit your taste.

Taco Pasta Salad Recipe – Easy, Quick, and Family-Friendly 2026

Description

A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta salad with taco-seasoned ground beef or chicken, crunchy veggies, and optional Doritos for extra crunch. Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or summer gatherings. Easily customizable with or without meat, and comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):

For the Salad:

12 oz rotini or shell pasta
1 lb ground beef, chicken, or cooked beans for vegetarian version
1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup canned corn, drained
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sliced black olives
½ cup diced red bell pepper
½ cup diced red onion
1 cup crushed Doritos (optional for topping)

For the Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2: Cook Protein

In a skillet, cook ground beef or chicken over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and ¼ cup water, simmer 2–3 minutes until well coated. Cool slightly.

Step 3: Make Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Salad

In a large bowl, combine pasta, cooked protein (or beans), veggies, cheese, and olives.
Pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate at least 30 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
Just before serving, sprinkle crushed Doritos on top for crunch.

Notes

Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with black beans, corn, or taco-seasoned tofu.
Make Ahead: Prepare up to 1 day in advance; add Doritos right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Flavor Boost: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of taco sauce for extra heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Salad / Party Dish
Method: Boiled / Skillet / Tossed
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion